There had been hope that just like how his character could defeat the evils of Rome, Andy Whitfield would be able to claim victory over his condition.

However, the Welsh actor lost his valiant battle against non-Hodgkin lymphoma on Sunday. Whitfield was 39.

"We were fortunate to have worked with Andy in 'Spartacus' and came to know that the man who played a champion on-screen was also a champion in how own life," Starz, which broadcasts "Spartacus: Blood and Sand," said in a statement. "Andy was an inspiration to all of us as he faced this very personal battle with courage, strength and grace. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time. He will live on on in the hearts of his family, friends and fans."

Lymphoma is a cancer that attacks lymphocytes, a type of white blood cells in the body used to fight off disease. It was first described in the early 1800s, and is considered the first lymphoma of dozens discovered by scientists and doctors.

Whitfield was first diagnosed with the disease more than a year ago, but determined to continue his role on "Spartacus" after its first successful season. Starz even went ahead and ordered a spin-off series to fill the gap needed for Whitfield to recover, with "Gods of the Arena" also winning some critical acclaim. However, in the end, Whitfield could not return to the show, and gave his blessing for Liam McIntyre to take his place.

Whitfield was born July 17, 1972 in Amlwch, Wales. He originally studied engineering, but then jumped into modeling and acting, taking on several television series in Australia, including "All Saints" and "Packed to the Rafters."

He would get the role of Spartacus in 2009 and began filming his first and only season in New Zealand.

In announcing his death, Whitfield's wife Vashti said that "on a beautiful sunny Sydney ... morning, surrounded by his family, in the arms of his loving wife, our beautiful young warrior Andy Whitfield lost his 18-month battle with lymphoma cancer."

Lucy Lawless, who starred with Whitfield in "Spartacus," said he was a "gentle man who never said a bad word about anyone. Andy's incandescent film presence made men want to be him and women want to marry him. Andy's two babies will always know that their Daddy cherished them and their mother, Vashti, above all things. How lucky we were to have him grace all our lives."

Whitfield is survived by his wife and two children.